Five great places to take in culture

1 Milwaukee Art Museum The main wing, called the Quadracci Pavilion, is a work of art itself, with soaring 90-foot glass ceilings in the Windhover Hall. Recent renovations have breathed new life into other galleries. (414) 224-3200; mam.org

2Mader’s Open since 1902, Mader’s wealth of art and antiques turns dinner into a gallery visit. The recipes are as German-centric as they come; try the Wiener schnitzel. (414) 271-3377; madersrestaurant.com

3 Marcus Center for the Performing Arts Broadway and off- Broadway shows find a home here, as do kids’ activities and community events. (414) 273-7121; marcuscenter.org

4Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra For more than 50 years, the orchestra has garnered critical acclaim. This year’s lineup includes Beethoven's Fifth and Casablanca. Can't make a show? Download digital concert recordings. (414) 291-7605; mso.org

5Pabst Theater Patrons take in ballets, concerts and comedic acts, and soak up history in this building originally owned by Frederick Pabst. (414) 286-3663; pabsttheater.org | (414) 902-2103; milwaukeeballet.org

Pabst Theater.

One big party

More than 800 artists and 900,000 fans converge in Henry Maier Festival Park for Summerfest. Past performers at this massive 11-day, 11-stage celebration starting in late June have included Bonnie Raitt, Lady Gaga, Ziggy Marley and REO Speedwagon. summerfest.com